Zumobi to be distributed with Windows Mobile

Zumobi announced a deal with Microsoft whereby the software will be integrated into Windows Mobile: "Under terms of the business agreement, Microsoft will distribute the award-winning zooming user interface and mobile widget platform with Windows Mobile." Read more at www.zumobi.com/newspressreleases.html

Posted on the GO!

Phoneweaver version 1.2 released

This new version includes a new counter that displays the number of new emails, SMS/MMS, missed calls and Voice mails directly on the Today screen. Other features are Profile icons, New Today layout and a Advanced command line tool.
Read more at http://www.sbsh.net/products/phoneweaver/

Posted on the GO!

Free Slide 2 View utility

This new free utility has been posted on Xda Developers forum. Slide2View allows for viewing pictures without the stylus and is thus intended for Pocket PCs. Download at http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=358187.

Resco releases Keyboard Pro v5

This new version allows for fast typing with or without the stylus. Indeed, the keys are big enough to be used with the thumb. Among the features are the Preview and Correction modes so the user types what is really intended; three numeric layouts and a "Writing calculator"; 20 national keyboard layouts and skins. Keyboard Pro has a 7 day trial that can be downloaded at http://resco.net/pocketpc/keyboard/default.asp.

New technology to supplant Ion lithium batteries

Angstrom Power Inc. Has developed and tested a new technology to power mobile devices with twice "the run-time of batteries and with recharge times on the order of 10 minutes." Simply put, Angstrom solution uses Hydrogen. Dubbed Angsrtom EverOn, will be available commercially in 2010.
This is good news as it promises to make our beloved device work longer with a short recharge time. Read more at www.angstrompower.com/articles/1249_080108_pressrelease.pdf.

Posted on the GO!

Tips: Move to the next message

Yesterday, a former Blackberry user newly converted to Windows Mobiles asked if it was possible to move to the next message without having to close a message and go back and open a new one. Such a feature is available on the Blackberry, of course.
Here is how it works in Windows Mobile. Simply use the D-pad to navigate from one message to another. Pressing the right side of the D-pad opens the next message. The left side takes you back to the previous message. When you reach the end of your Inbox, it automatically takes you to the next account on your device.
Use your D-pad to move up or down; or to navigate through your messages quickly and easily.

SBSH Pocket Weather 2.0 released

Features:
 
Weather forecast - Enjoy complete weather forecast details for unlimited world-wide locations directly to your Windows Mobile Smartphone device! 10 day forecast, winds, sunrise/set times, humidity and much more!

Facade Integration - Special integration with the latest Facade 1.4 release! View weather forecast details embedded within Facade Schedule tab display as part of your daily agenda overview!

WeatherConsole - The most powerful weather solution for users on the move, providing access to advanced weather information such as current/detailed METAR conditions, raw METAR/TAF data, compare views and more!

Costom Layout Scripting - Choose your weather display with a set of pre-defined layouts and create new custom layouts using custom layout technolegy, allowing to create endless new weather layouts! In addition, PocketWeather is shipped with a professional set of weather icons design!
 
Learn more at http://www.sbsh.net/products/pocketweather_sp/

---

Express yourself instantly with MSN Messenger! MSN Messenger

Free: NewsGator Go!

NewsGator announced that all of its RSS readers are now available free for download on their website at http://www.newsgator.com/individuals/default.aspx. Go for it and remember to add Pocket PC Mauritius to your RSS feeds.

http://feeds.feedburner.com/pocketpcMauritius.

Pocket Informant 8 released

Pocket Informant is a powerful PIM manager. Version 8 introduces features that allows moving around using the finger. Therefore, Pocket Informant has a new less cluttered interface. Of course there are loads of other features that you can find out at Http://www.webis.net/products_info.php?p_id=pocketinformant

Posted on the GO!

Handmark to acquire Astraware

Both companies announced the deal yesterday in a press release. "The acquisition of Astraware will reinforce the position of Handmark as the leading developer and publisher of high-end smartphone titles". Paul Reddick, Handmark CEO, said: "We recognize the genius of the mobile gaming pioneers who created Astraware and welcome them to the Handmark family".
Read more at http://www.handmark.com/company/press.php?id=167.

Beta: Yahoo Go! 3.0

Yahoo has made Yahoo! Go 3.0 beta available on their website at http://mobile.yahoo.com. Before you go there, be aware that it does not run on Windows Mobile devices yet. Only Blackberrys and Nokias are supported.
This new version lets you add and remove widgets and will include MTV News, MySpace and eBay.

Posted on the GO!

What Windows Mobile 7 will be like?

InsideMicrosoft has a great article about the upcoming version of Windows Mobile. There are also a lot of pictures that shows that Windows Mobile is moving in the right direction. Windoww Mobile 7 will use motion gestures. Read more at http://Microsoft.blognewschannel.com/archives/2008/01/06/exclusive-windows-mobile-7-to-focus-on-touch-and-motion-gestures/

Posted on the GO!

Solsie.com giving away Pocket Informant 2007

Solsie.com is giving away the award-winning Pocket Informant. The offer will last for two days only, starting today Friday 4 and ending tomorrow. Go to http://solsie.com/two-days-only-fri-sat-jan45-pocketinformant-giveaway/ To learn more.

Posted on the GO!

Free: Keyswop for remapping softkeys

I come across several requests on varuois forums abou the ability to remap the softkeys on Windows Mobile devices. While this is possible through modofication of the registry, there is an easier way to do that using KeySwop. A cool and free application that can be downloaded at http://mobile-sg.com/software/?p=KeySwop&platform=ppc.
This is much safer way of remapping the softkeys.

Posted on the GO!

New Windows Mobile Shell Coming Tomorrow

Jason points us on his blog to Pointui.com which tells us that Pointui Home is a new Windows Mobile shell that will be released soon. There is a video posted on YouTube by the company that shows a somewhat iPhone-like interface. Since this is a shell, it will replace the current user interface on your device so make sure to perform a full backup if you decide to upgrade. Pointui's homepage points us further to there-is-no-place-like-home.com which shows a clock counting down to the release. It looks like it will come out at Midnight Eastern Time (that's 00:00 January 1, 2007 GMT-5). Check their websites for pictures and videos of this exciting and free new GUI.

Watch Your TV On Your Mobile

If you have ever wanted to get a Slingbox so that you can watch your television while on the go, now is the chance to acquire your's. Jason Langridge of Microsoft alerts us to a deal from Slingbox on his blog: Slingbox Solo + Slingplayer Mobile for $159.99. That's $20 off the retail price of the Solo plus Slingplayer Mobile for free!

The offer is only valid for US residents and expires on December 31 so hurry and place your order.

Offer: http://www.slingbox.com/get/myEmployeeDiscount

Handango offering 25% off any software

With the holidays season coming to an end, Handango is giving 25% off any smartphone software you purchase on their website. Now is the time to acquire the software you've always wanted. The offer expires on December 31.

Posted on the GO!

Beta: Go Gadgets

Ever wanted to use your device to control applications such as Windows Media player or Powerpoint on your PC? If yes, send an email to beta_at_ikanosconsulting.com and test it for free. Go Gadgets supports Windows Mobile 5 & 6 and Vista.

Posted on the GO!

Seasons greetings

Looking for special ringtones and wallpapers for your favorite device? Go to https://www.microsoft.com/windowsmobile/domore/default.mspx. Register and download, it's all free.

MERRY CHRISTMAS.

HTC releases Bluetooth hotfix for TyTN II, Touch and S710

If you have problems with dropped calls when bluetooth is on, then download the hotfix at http://member.htc.com.

Posted on the GO!

Access all files on your pc with Copernic Mobile

Copernic Mobile is an application that lets you remotely search your PC provided you have Windows Desktop Search or Copernic Desktop Search installed. According to their website, Copernic Mobile works with virtually any mobile device. Still in beta version, it can be downloaded free at www.copernic.com/products/desktop-search/mobile/index.html

Posted on the GO!

Free: WorldMate for Pocket PC

You are a frequent traveller? Then Worldmate will be very useful to you during your trips. The package includes an itinerary viewer, global waether forecast, world clocks, converters and much more. You can download WorldMate free at www.mobimate.com/free.

Posted on the GO!

Resco giving away four games for PCs

Resco has four games, that were originally designed for mobile devices, free for download on their websites. These games, namely Sudoku, Sokoban, Diamonds and Defender, have been ported to the PC platform and are compatible with Windows Vista, XP and 2000. Download the games at www.rescogames.com/games/pcgames/default.asp

Posted on the GO!

Free App Friday: Pocket Informant 2007

Today only, it's Free App Friday on Handango and today you get Pocket Informant 2007, a $34.95 value, completely free!
Product Info
Free App

And don't worry, if you miss getting the free download, you can at least visit the same page before next Friday and get a discount on the app.

Opera files antitrust complaint against Microsoft

Geekzone, www.geekzone.co.nz, reports that Opera has filed a complaint against Microsoft with the European Commission. According to Opera, Microsoft is abusing its dominant position by tying its browser to Windows. Jon Von Tetzchner, Ceo of Opera, said, "we are filing this complaint on behalf of all consumers who are tired of having a monopolist make choices for them." Read more at www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=7549

Archive your SMS and Call History with Sprite Archie

I often receive emails from users asking for a solution to backup or archive SMSs. Finally, Sprite is working on an application that will do that. Sprite Archie, which by the way is still in beta version, lets you archive sent and received SMS and Call History also. No release date has been announced yet, but Sprite Archie Beta is available as a free download at www.spritesoftware.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=201

Posted on the GO!

Spb Releases Spb Wallet 1.5

Spb Software House releases Spb Wallet 1.5, a secure and manageable storage of sensitive information. Pocket PC and Smartphone users can safely keep passport and account numbers, access and PIN codes, logins and passwords in Spb Wallet, access the data from desktop PCs, and have it synchronized among multiple mobile devices. Spb Wallet puts an end to keeping the most sensitive information exposed on SIM-cards, in address books, and in text files.

What is New in Spb Wallet 1.5? ***

* The Smartphone version
* A spectacular Gallery of Templates (http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/smartphone/wallet/templates.html) and FREE custom templates on request
* The toolbar working in both Internet Explorer and Firefox
* Auto supply of user name and password in IE and Firefox
* Improved automatic password supply algorithms, support for frames and script-generated pages
* Import from SplashID and custom CSV format, an Importing Wizard for configuring importing mappings
* Skinned customizable buttons, punctuation symbols, and backspace in Logon Panel
* Localized cards templates
* Enhanced card view and smoothed user experience

Spb Wallet is currently available in Czech, English, German, and Russian. Spb Wallet is compatible with Windows Mobile 2003 and 5.0 for Pocket PC , Windows Mobile 6 Professional and Standard devices, Windows Mobile 5.0 for Smartphones, as well as Windows 2000/2003/XP/Vista on desktop. A free 15-day trial can be downloaded, or Spb Wallet can be purchased for 29.95 USD, at www.spbsoftwarehouse.com. Users of other wallet-type programs are welcomed to use the Spb Wallet migration tool for importing data.

Further information regarding Spb Wallet can be found at the Spb website:
(http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/products/wallet)

Tips: How to delete Windows Live?

Once Windows Live is configured on the device, it appears that it's not possible to delete it. One way I've found so far is to delete a registry entry. While this solves the problem, however, it makes it impossible to re-use Windows Live without a hard reset.
Today I found a much easier way to do that and one that does not require manipulating the registry. Windows Live can be reconfigured later without a hard reset.
To achieve that, open Windows Live in Start - Programs on the device. In the Menu, select Account Options and select Switch Accounts. This will remove all emails from your device. When done, the EULA page will appear. On that screen, make sure you select REJECT. Windows Live setup will stop and you will be taken back to WL main page - The page with Live Search and the Sign-in to Windows Live link. Check in Messaging and Windows Live mailbox is gone.

Free: PocketOutlook Eraser 1.0

PocketOutlook Eraser is a very nice application that will let you erase Contact, Calendar and Tasks data on your device. This comes in handy if you want to create a new sync and avoid getting duplicates. PocketOutlook Eraser is WM5+ Pocket PC edition compatible and requires .Net Compact Framework 2.0. Download it in the link below:

http://blog.sugata.eu/projects/pocketpc-applications/pocketoutlook-eraser/

Posted on the GO!

Free: GMobileSync for Google calendar sync.

An open source sync engine has been released that allows you to sync Google's Calendar to Pocket Outlook. GMobileSync supports two way synchronization, recurring appointments and timezones. Follow the link below to download.

http://www.codeplex.com/Release/ProjectReleases.aspx?ProjectName=gmobilesync&ReleaseId=8810

Posted on the GO!

TruPhone brings phone functionality to Facebook

Members of Facebook will now be able to make free phone calls to friends right from the now famous social site. The application's name is "Call Me", and is available by default to all members. Follw the link below to learn more:

http://mobilitysite.com/2007/12/truphone-builds-free-phone-calls-application-using-facebook-platform/

Posted on the GO!

New: Free VoIP software

Flashphone is a new free of charge web based service that allows you to make calls from a PC or mobile device. According to Jack Cook, editor of http://experiencemobility.com/, only 1 test call is available for now "but that will change (hopefully soon)." Read more at http://experiencemobility.com/wordpress/?p=3394.

Posted on the GO!

WM6 update available free for U.S. Palm Treo 750 Customers

The update is available at www.palm.com/750updateATT.

Posted on the GO!

Boy Genius Report publishes pics of Windows Mobile 6.1

There are hundreds of snapshots on BGR of what supposedly is the next version of Windows Mobile. No text at all, just a title - Windows Mobile 6.1.

http://boygeniusreport.com/gallery/handsets/windows-mobile-61/

NetFront Browser 3.4 free technical preview

NetFront 3.4 is available as a free download for testing. I never thought of trying NetFront before since I am happy with Opera 8.65. The latter is available for Pocket PC and Smartphone edition of Windows Mobile, whereas NetFront runs on Pocket PC only. Download NetFront free at www.access-company.com/products/netfrontmobile/browser/34_wm_tp.html.

Posted on the GO!

Vito Technology releases GoodWin

Yet another release from Vito Technology through http://iwindowsmobile.com. GoodWin is simply a task manager, dubbed "Windows Mobile Launcher and task switcher by Vito Technology. As with previous releases by the company, they want you to get rid of your stylus and use your fingers instead to manipulate your device, just like the iPhone.

Posted on the GO!

The next version of windows Mobile

Jason also talks about the next version of Windows Mobile. Note that it will just be an update. The next major upgrade is codenamed Photon. The update should be released sometime early next year. I'm actually playing with it on one of my devices, but I can't say more. You will love it...

Office Mobile 6.1 released

Jason Langridge got it right this time :). Microsoft released a free upgrade for Office Mobile that will allow you to open and edit Office 2007 file formats on your Pocket PC or Smartphones running WM5 and above. The upgrade can be downloaded through Jason's weblog at Http://Blogs.msdn.com/jasonlan/.

Posted on the GO!

Tips: Internet Pass through not working on Palm Treo 750

Earlier today, a member of the Windows Mobile Owners Circle forums reported that he could not access internet on his Treo while the latter is connected to his PC. To avoid confusion here, let me just explain what Pass through is.
Pass Through is a technology built in to our devices and Activesync that when connected to an internet PC via USB, your device will use the connection on the PC to access the web. If GPRS or any other connections are running on your PC, your device will automatically suspend those connections to use the connection on the PC instead.
The member was not able to use pass through. I first recommend that he changed his connections settings in Activesync to Automatic or Internet, but that did not work. Whichever solution I proposed did not work. Until I found this fix in the registry.
Open the Registry editor and go to Hkey_Current_User\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings. Locate EnableAutoDetect. Change the value to 1. The default is 0. If you cannot find EnableAutoDetect, create it as a Dword value. This fix might apply to other devices as well.

Note: Do this at your own risk.

Eten releases SDHC patch

There seems to be a growing demand for SDHC support. Eten's Glofiish owners will be happy to learn that a patch has been released that will bring SDHC support to their devices. However, according to www.etenblog.com, "when installed, you can no longer use normal SD cards on your Glofiish devices".

The patch can be download at www.etenblog.com/downloads/official_sdhc_Patch.zip

Posted on the GO!

Tips: Lost all contacts in Outlook after a sync

A customer reported having lost all his contacts in Outlook Desktop after connecting his device to sync. His query was how to undo a sync. While this is not possible, I advised that he checks the Deleted Items folder in Outlook. His contacts were indeed there.

Spb Windows Mobile Survey: Voice the Demand to be Served Right

Spb Software House launches its fourth annual Spb Windows Mobile Survey. This year, the Spb Survey will not only address Pocket PC, but also Smartphone users. The Survey covers a range of usability topics, attempts to capture the general WM device user profiles, and aims to establish the "perfect software" recipe.

An expert and opinion leader in the field of making mobile software for the consumer market, Spb Software House will make the Spb Survey findings public on December 18th. This year, three random respondents will receive just in time for Christmas "thank you" gifts from Spb. The company is giving away a high-end Windows Mobile device, accessories from JustMobile, as well as a $100-worth of Spb software.

Take the survey here: http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/support/survey2007.php

Preview: EverNote for Windows Mobile released

EverNote is a nifty application that you will want on your device to take simple notes, record audio notes and snapshot notes. It works on both touch screen and non-touchscreen platform. EverNotes can be synchronized with the desktop. Go to www.evernote.com, and download a free copy to try.

Posted on the GO!

Symantec releases Mobile Antivirus for Windows Mobile

Symantec has released Mobile Antivirus to protect our devices against malicious code downloaded from the web or emails. The software is available for puchase at $29.95 at www.symantec.com/norton/products/overview.jsp?pcid=pf&pvid=smavwm.
Windows Mobile 2003, 2003SE, WM5 are supported. Windows Mobile 6 is not in the list of system requirements.

Vito Technology releases Zoomboard

Yet another onscreen keyboard on the market for Pocket PCs. Vito's keyboard has some similarity with the iPhone and offers a zoomed preview while typing to reduce errors. While such virtual keyboards are great for data entry on touch screen devices, I believe it's time that device manufacturers' just start offering devices with builtin QWERTY keyboards along with touchcreens. Life would be so much easier. Try ZoomBoard at http://iwindowsmobile.com/onscreen-keyboard.html

Microsoft Pieter Knook finds it hard to comment on Android

Mr. Knook is Senior vice-president of Microsoft mobile communications business and in an interview with Australian The Age, he said that "it's hard to comment on what you haven't seen." Similar to Steve Ballmer's comments so far on the Android. However, Mr. Knook goes on to say that "it takes a lot of learning to get into this space." Read more at

http://www.theage.com.au/news/businessinnovations/android-drops-microsoft-into-googles-pocket/2007/11/12/1194766631642.html

Posted on the GO!

Call for help

Since yesterday, my Windows Live mail account on my HTC S620 has lost HTML capability. I've been trying to restore it, but in vain. I went to switch accounts and clear password, but my Hotmail still will not display emails in HTML format. I know it's the device, since it works on my HTC Wizard. Hard reset is not an option and is not worth it. It would be nice to troubleshoot this issue, so if anybody has an idea, do send me a note. I will really appreciate. Thanks in advance.

Free App and Discounts

It's Friday which means that Handango is giving away a free application. Today it is Agendus for Windows Mobile Smartphones. To get your free copy, go to http://www.handango.com/FreeAppFriday.jsp.

Handango is also celebrating nine years of service today with a sale. Now through November 30 you can save 15% off any app with the code 9YEARSALE

Tips: How to dial a phone number from the Calendar?

Adding a phone number in the Notes area of the Calendar is very useful when the reminder pops up to remind you that you need to call a contact. It would be great to be able to dial the number in the Notes area rather tha having to pull up Contacts and look up the contact number. However, by default, Outlook Mobile does not let you dial the number. At least, that function does not work in Windows Mobile 5/6 Professional edition. It does work in the Standard edition though.
There is a workaround for that. When typing the phone number in the notes area, use the following format: tel:1234567. The phone number, including "tel:" will get underlined and the font color will change to blue. Tap to dial the number.

Samsung SCH-i760 review

Jack Cook, a Microsoft MVP, has a nice and extensive review of Samsung's latest device at http://experiencemobility.com/wordpress/?p=3286. The device has a numeric keypad under the screen and a slide-out keyboard for typing text or for document editing. The review has plenty of pictures too. While you're there, check out the site's archive for very useful info and interesting articles about Mobility.

Posted on the GO!

AgendaOne version 2 released

Developerone has released version 2 of Agendaone with loads of new features. Besides being easier to use, other features include New Templates for creating frequently used appointments and Tasks. Contact Linking is also a nice tool that lets you link a contact to one or more contacts within the Notes area. For more, go to www.developerone.com/agendaone/version2.htm

Astraware releases Plantastic

Plantastic is, according to Astraware, a fun combination of puzzle and strategy game where you create bouquets from groups of brightly coloured flowers to clear them from the play board and reach each level's bloom target!  
Plantastic! includes 5 game modes - each one has a different planting pattern and blooms can only be placed near the player's last bloom within the pattern shown. Blooms drop into the queue and you must plant them in the garden before the queue fills up.
 
Get this fun puzzle strategy game today for your Palm OS® or Windows Mobile® smartphone or PDA and save $5 off the regular price. Plantastic! is available for devices with touchscreens.
Read more at http://astraware.com/ppc/plantastic/?promo=NEWS2007PLAN

 

---

Explore the seven wonders of the world Learn more!

Spb releases Spb Insight for Smartphones

Spb Insight is a nice software that allows reading news offline thus decreasing data usage. It's just great the Spb has decided to port this application to Smartphones. A 15-day trial is available at www.spbsoftwarehouse.com.

Posted on the GO!

Watch Android in action

Brandon Miniman, MVP over at PocketNow, has published a video of Google's Android running on two devices. According to Brandon, "the UI isn't anything breakthrough - it seems to be a combination of iconic-based navigation from a main screen (think Palm) with pretty visuals including transparency and smooth animations (think iPhone). Click the link below to Watch The video:

http://www.pocketnow.com/index.php?a=portal_detail&t=news&id=4704

HTC announces Touch Cruise

I wonder why HTC chose to include "Touch" in the name of this device, especially that it's got a different form factor from the HTC Touch. The only similarity between the two devices is that both use the TouchFlo technology. Which, by the way, is also present on the TyTN II.
The Cruise specs include GPS, Windows Mobile 6, 3MP camera, FM radio; 400MHz processor, 256MB ROM and 128MB RAM. Learn more at www.htc.com/product/03-product_htctouch_cruise.htm.

Free: Transfer contacts from Facebook to Outlook with Fonebook

Here's another free application developed by Ross Dargan that lets you import Facebook data into Outlook 2003 and 2007 and sycnchronize with your phone. Not so long ago I blogged about Microsoft Mel Sampat similar application. The difference between the two is quite notable.
Ross Dargan's Fonebook not only works with Windows Mobile powered Smartphones, but with the latest generation of Nokias too. Fonebook is able to copy Contact photos, profile web address, about me details, status details and birthday if using Outlook 2007.
Download Fonebook free at http://ross.dargan.googlepages.com/.

Opera Mini 4 released

Opera Mini 4 has been released as a free download at www.operamini.com. This new version is, according to Opera, "fast, safe and secure". To download directly to your phone, point your browser to operamini.com.

Posted on the GO!

Calendar entry off by 1 hour

If you are experiencing this issue because of the change of dates for Daylight Saving Time, make sure you follow the steps to update your device as instruction by Microsoft. An important tip to remember is in the Installation tips which says that "after installing the update, change your default time zone to any different value". Click Done to save your settings and change to your default time zone. This will avoid having issues with your appoinments. Go to www.microsoft.com:80/windowsmobile/daylightsaving/default.mspx, to learn more.

Posted on the GO!

Tips: Can't see Windows folder using Explore in Vista

Someone sent me a note sometime ago reporting that he was not able to see some folders on his device when using Windows Explorer in Windows Vista. By default, Windows systems files are hidden. To change that, click Tools - Folder Options in Windows Explorer and select Show Hidden files and folders.
If you still cannot see all your files, you might want to uncheck Hide protected operating system files. I do not recommend that though.

Posted on the GO!

MobiTV 25% Off

I happened to stop by the Handango Free App Friday page today and even though the one month free of MobiTV offer is gone, there is a new offer in its place: 25% off MobiTV!! If you have a Pocket PC, now is the time to subscribe to MobiTV for only $7.49 per month. When you order from Handango, use coupon code 4E7A1112 at checkout to get the discount.

Note that it does not specify if the special rate is only for the first month or the life of the subscription.

http://www.handango.com/PlatformProductDetail.jsp?siteId=1&productId=188096&code=4E7A1112&platformId=2

Opera Mini 4 out of beta soon

According to a post on Opera team blog, the much expected Opera Mini will be released soon. The site does not specify any dates though. So keep watch.

http://operawatch.com/news/2007/11/final-version-of-opera-mini-4-coming-soon.html

Posted on the GO!

MobiTV free from Handango

Today's free app from Handango is a 1 Month subscription for MobiTV for
Pocket PC!! This isn't the trial version of MobiTV where you only get the
one preview channel; this is the full version. It's still kind of a trial
since you only get it for a month, but it's totally free!

http://www.handango.com/FreeAppFriday.jsp

Tipster: Jason

Posted on the GO!

News: 40% off Resco products

Simply put, Resco products are really good. Especially Resco Explorer which is now in version 2007. For Halloween, Resco is offering 40% discount off most of its products. The discount is valid until November 8. Waste no time and click the link below to take advantage of these award winning applications - http://www.resco.net/default.asp.

Posted on the GO!

Tips: Export Windows Contacts to Outlook Contacts

With Windows Vista, it's possible to store contacts in Windows Contacts. This is convenient if you don't have Outlook installed. Now that you've purchased Outlook, it would be great to be able to transfer these data from Windows Contacts to Outlook and sync the data to your Windows Mobile device.
To do that, open Windows Contacts and click Export on the menu bar. Select CSV (Comma Seperated Values) in the Export Windows Contacts Window. Click Export.
Type a name for the file and click Browse. Select the location where you want to save the file and click Save. Click Next and select the fields you need and click Finish.
Open Outlook and click File - Import and Export. Choose Import from another program or file. Click Next. Select Comma Seperated Values (Windows) from the list and click Next. Browse to the location where you saved the CSV file and click Next. Select the folder where you want to import the folder to and click Next. Check the file you want to import and follow onscreen instructions and click Finish. This is it. Connect your device to sync.

Posted on the GO!

WM6 upgrade available for AT&T 8525

The upgrade is available as from today to February 1, 2008. Only the 8525 is supported. Download the upgrade at http://www.america.htc.com/support/8525/software-downloads.html. Make sure you read the instructions carefully.

Posted on the GO!

Free: HTC Today screen for your PDA

PocketNow has HTCs Today plugin available as a free download on their website. The plugin I refer to is the one that can be seen on HTC's latest devices: TyTN II and Touch. You'll have quick access to your contacts, software and a rather big digital clock on your main screen. It's a cool plugin. Download at www.pocketnow.com/index.php?a=portal_detail&t=news&id=4618.

Posted on the GO!

Review: FunContact by Vito Technology

Since the launch of the iPhone a couple of months ago, the handheld community has endeavored itself to emulate Apple's interface and port it to Windows Mobile platform. Vito technology is the latest to come up with an iPhone-like interface application and went even further by developing a website with icons similar to the iPhone. Six applications are listed there, but only two are available for download; FunContact and AstroNavigator II. The first named is the subject of this short review.

All in all, FunContact is an application that replaces the default Contacts interface on your device with some nice features. I've installed it on my Eten M500 Pocket PC running Windows Mobile 5. After a successful install, Vito took over the Contacts soft key. I lost my stylus a long time ago and never felt the need to purchase a replacement. So I'm quite an expert at using my thumb to find my way on the device. I tapped Contacts and FunContact took 9 seconds to load, which is a bit long. Once it's opened, the application is very responsive though.

At the bottom of the screen are four buttons. The first one, with the A, is your contacts list. Not much to say about the button itself except that it's big enough to manipulate with the thumb. The font's size makes it easy to differentiate contacts at a glance. You do not need to pull out your stylus to search your contacts. Use your finger, most likely your thumb, to scroll through the list. It required that I pressed a little bit on the screen to move up or down the list. If you have a lot of Contacts, you might find finger scrolling somehow inefficient, especially if you're in a hurry. There is a better way of doing it.

On the right side of the screen is the alphabet column. Touch it with your finger and a box appears with the selected letter in bold. Drag your finger along the column and it changes to the next alphabet in the list. This is a quick and easy way to flip through your contacts while on the go.

Tap to view a contact details. The way a contact card opens is quite cool. Actually the screen revolves on itself to display the card. The latter shows the contacts photo, the different phone numbers and email addresses of the selected contacts. It displays each number on its own line with a SMS button at the end. Tap the SMS button will open the new SMS screen and of course sending a sms to your Home/Work/Mobile phone number. Obviously, your Home/Work phone device must support SMSs for this to work. Tapping directly on the phone number initiates a call. Another useful feature on the screen is the star next to the contacts name at the top of the screen. Tap on it and its color changes to gold. Go back to the main screen and notice that the second button has a gold
star on it. Each contact that has the star highlighted is added to a favorites list for quick access.

The third button displays most recently dialed numbers and incoming calls. Tap to start a new call. The forth button is a menu list. The first choice lets you create a new contact. The second one lets you sort your contacts by First name, Last Name and Company. FunContact is available in five languages: English, Italian, Spanish, German and French. You can set the language you want using the Language option in the menu list. The other two options are Minimize and Exit.

Conclusion

FunContact does make it easier to navigate through the contacts list and the overall design is cool. I did not find it as flashy as announced by Vito though. The ability to scroll using the fingers is nice but does not necessarily warrant spending $19.95 for it. I hope the good folks
over at Vito Technology will review that. The contact card can be improved to include more details, like IM addresses. It can be re-designed to use the free space between the phone numbers and the SMS buttons. An idea would be to have adjacent squares that are big enough for the finger.

Extreme Text - New threaded texting for Smartphones

Extreme Text is an application that brings threaded capabilities to Windows Mobile Smartphones. This application will work on non-touch screen devices only. Using the default messaging program, it also adds new features like emoticons, photo contacts etc. Giving you a true instant messaging experience. Download a free trial at www.birdsoft.biz/extremetext.htm.

Posted on the GO!

Gmail is now IMAP enabled

I'm not sure there was an announcement for this, but checking my Gmail settings, I noticed that IMAP was added. If you have had issues the Gmail POP3, you will like IMAP. Why? Your emails will remain on your device when synchronizing. There has been a lot of complaint regarding this. On each sync, already downloaded emails would simply disappear from the Inbox. I'm going to try the Imap.

Posted on the GO!

Touch Commander - for a one touch access to your PDA's functions

The success of the iPhone and HTC Touch 3D interface has probably inspired MobilityFlow to develop a similar, if not better, solution for existing and upcoming devices. Touch Commander is a $14.95 application that lets you use your finger to sweep across the screen in much the same way the TouchFlo technology does.
The site claims that Touch Command works on "any model of PDA powered by Microsoft Windows Mobile 5 or higher." I've tried it on my Eten M500 and it does not work. Let me know should anyone get it to work.

http://www.touch-commander.com/

Microsoft Introduces New Technology and Collaboration to Accelerate Business Smartphone Adoption

Seeking to catalyze large-scale adoption of mobile smartphones by
corporate customers, Microsoft Corp. CEO Steve Ballmer today unveiled
several strategic offerings to help people and businesses better embrace
mobile technology. The company announced its first dedicated mobile
device management server and a strategic new business alliance to
complement the growing success of the Microsoft Windows Mobile operating
system and help more businesses take advantage of mobile solutions for
their employees.

Read more at:
http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2007/oct07/10-23CTIA2007PR.mspx

Free: Dashwire web dashboard lets you access your WM device from your computer

Dashwire Inc. has launched a new service that "automatically mirrors the content on your phone to your personal web account." This free tool then lets you send and receive sms; add and edit contacts; organize photos and videos; Listen to voicemail; set internet favorites, ringtones, speed dials and transfer contacts and settings to your new phone.
Go to www.dashwire.com To learn more and try it. Registration is required.

Posted on the GO!

Q&A: My device does not display caller ID

Q: When I receive phone calls, the phone number is displayed instead of the caller ID. Thus, I sometime do not know who's calling. My phone number format is 123 4567. How can I resolve that?

A: Some HTC devices have that problem where they are unable to compare and retrieve the caller when a phone calls arrive. This is happening because the number of digits in the phone number, which is 7. Many countries use 8 digits and by default, some devices are setup with the default value 8 in the following registry key: HKCU\Control Panel\Phone\CallIdMatch. Change the value to 7 and soft reset. This is it.

Tipster: Maurisystems Ltd

Posted on the GO!

Unable to sync Outlook data with Windows Vista and how I solved it.

I came across multiple posts about issues where only files and Favorites would sync with Vista and WMDC but not Contacts, Calendar and Tasks. I experienced the same issue this week-end after installing VistaUltimate. Deleting existing partnerships did not help. My Outlook data did not sync even though my HTC S620 would show up in WMDC and synced my favorites. A hard reset was an option since I had the same data on my Pocket PC, but I was determined to resolve this without hard resetting.

I connected my Eten M500 and it synchronized flawlessly. Same for my wife's HTC S310. With the help of a fresh beer, I went to create a new standard account on my PC. I logged on with the new account and started Outlook 2003 to create a profile. Then I connected my Smartphone. The screen to delete an existing partnership came up since I was already synchronizing with two PCs - My
home and Work PCs. So I deleted the office partnership. WMDC saved my new settings and I named my new connection as Home instead of the default Windows PC3. Amazingly, my device started synchronizing with the PC. I went into Outlook and all my data were there. But I wasn't done
yet since I wanted to sync using my own Vista account.

I logged off and logged back on using my own account. Since Outlook already had data from my Eten, I deleted them all, connected my Smartphone and deleted one existing partnership. After that my device synchronized with the PC. I went into Outlook and they were all there.

Just to verify, I disconnected the phone, added a new contact and appointment and connected again. Confirmed, the issue was resolved.

Mobile GBlogger - blog on the go

I came across this nice software from Pocket Watch that lets you post to your Blogger account using your WM5/6 device. The basic version, which I'm using to post this, is free. GBlogger pro is at $15 per year. Both versions let you publish to your blog or save as draft. the differences being that in the free version, a one line advertisement is inserted at the end of the post.
Gblogger Pro has the ability to set Technorati tags/Categories, have indexing services and no advertisements.
While it's cool to have a software that let's you blog from wherever you are, I personally prefer to just send an email to my blog and it's automatically updated. if you need to insert HTML tags, Youtube videos etc, then GBlogger is what you need. To learn more: www.pocketwatchsoftware.com/gblogger.

- Posted using Pocket Watch Software Mobile GBlogger.

New Spb Pocket plus 4.0 released

This popular application has been released with loads of new functionality. The new build is less bulky, resulting in less space on the device after installation. Version 4.0 is also faster than its predecessor. Listed as novelties are:

Smart scrolling

Tabs in IE

New File save/open dialog

Additional actions assigned to hardware button long-pressing

A 15-day trial is available for download or you can purchase it for $29.95. Owners of the previous version can get it for $14.95.

http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com

Posted on the GO!

PocketSMS: SMS management software

PocketSMS is another software for managing SMS on your Windows XP or Vista PC. I wrote another because not so long ago, I blogged about Jeyo Mobile Companion which has the same features. PocketSMS was previously available in German only. The English version is sold for $19.95 and a 30 days trial is available. Download at http://www.thbi.de/us/software/pocketsms/index.html

Posted on the GO!

Vito reveals new website and new software

http://iwindowsmobile.com Is Vito Technology's new cool website to present their new applications. Right now only two of them are available: Funcontact and AstroNavigator II. One application has retained my attention though, SMS-Chat. This software is going to bring threaded sms conversation to Windows Mobile devices, at last. This is great news.

Posted on the GO!

Palm's green initiative

I applaud Palm's initiative to collect old or unused phones, chargers and other accessories for recycling. The recycled parts will then be used into new phones. Instead of throwing your old stuff in landfills or municipal waste, send them back to Palm. In doing so you will help preserve our already fragile environment. Go to http://blog.palm.com/palm/2007/10/project-green.html, to learn more. Bravo Palm.

Posted on the GO!

MySpace goes mobile

A mobile version of MySpace is now available. Point your mobile browser to http://mobile.myspace.com. From now on you will be able to access your blog or email and other popular MySpace services right from your device.

Free WM6 upgrade for Palm Treo 750V

If you own an unbranded version of the 750V, go to http://euro.palm.com To download the image free. Enjoy Windows Mobile 6.

I-Mate annouces two new Jama

The Imate Jama 101 is not so ifferent as its predecessor except that it runs on Windows Mobile 6 Professional. Ok, it's also a little bit more attractive. Then there's the Jama 201 which main characteristic is the builtin QWERTY keyboard. Both devices share the same specs, except in size and these are Tri-Band GSM/GPRS/Edge; Samsung 300Mhz processor; 128ROM and 64MB Ram; 2mp camera. These devices do not support Wifi and 3G. Read more.

Astraware announces the release of Astraware Boardgames

Astraware Boardgames includes 8 games intended for casual Players and non-experts. The package is available for both Smartphone and Pocket PCs running WM 2003 and above. Try or buy at www.astraware.com/boardgames.

Posted on the GO!

Free: Anti-Dupe to remove duplicate records in Outlook

If for some reason, you're starting to get duplicate records on your devices after synchronizing, Anti-Dupe might help solve the issue. This free add-on will delete any duplicates that are in your Appointments, Tasks, Contacts and Email. When you connect your device again to sync, all duplicates should go too. Download Anti-Dupe at www.anti-dupe.com/products/products.asp

Posted on the GO!

Free: FTP server for Windows Mobile

This free utility from Mochasoft lets you Copy/Paste files to and from a Pocket PC. It supports standard FTP commands and up to 25 active sessions. Regarding security, a timer will close inactive sessions and different access rights can be set for users. Go to http://www.mochasoft.dk/freeware/ftpd.htm. FTP server is free. However, a license is required to run it and can be found at the bottom of the provided webpage.

Posted on the GO!

Spb Mobile DVD 1.2.5 Released

Spb Software House's Spb Mobile DVD program has just been released. Following changes were made in Spb Mobile DVD
version 1.2.5:

- Full 640*480 resolution for WMV added.
- 800*480 (Wide VGA) resolution support added.
- Problem with digital copy protection even with PowerDVD 7 on Vista
resolved.

The version 1.2.5 is free for users of Spb Mobile DVD 1.x. You can
download the copy at

http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/products/mobiledvd/download.html

You can find more information about Spb Mobile DVD at

http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/products/mobiledvd/

Free: Add tabbed browsing functionality to PIE

Web Viewer is a free add-on for Internet Explorer Mobile. The add-on main feature is multi-tab browsing. Along with it comes the ability to open links in new tab, duplicate tab, hide tab options etc. This programs requires .Net Compact Framework 2.0 and supports devices with Touch screen only. Download here.

Can you graduate from brain school?

Brain school is a funny and useful game that lets you exercise "all various aptitudes, including verbal, spatial, numerical, and musical". The game is available as a free download on the Windows Mobile Owners Circle webpage at https://www.microsoft.com/windowsmobile/domore/brain-school.mspx

Spb Software House grabs three awards at Handango Patner summit

Spb Software House, the world's leading Windows Mobile software maker, received unparalleled recognition at the seventh annual Handango Partner Summit, held during the last week of September in San Diego, USA. Spb Software House claimed the Best Evolution Application and the Best Entertainment Application awards, as well as the Developer of the Year title in the Windows Mobile Pocket PC category.

The event, organized by Handango, the world's leading provider of smartphone content, traditionally brings together the mobile industry's leading content providers, handset manufacturers, wireless carriers, and platform vendors, who gather to share their views on the latest trends on the mobile content market, the major factors influencing its development, and the change in the mindset of the ever-growing community of mobility consumers.
 
Read more at http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com/about/pressreleases/2007/oct08.html

---

Invite your mail contacts to join your friends list with Windows Live Spaces. It's easy! Try it!

Free: Code Wallet pro 2006 for Pocket PC

Handango is also offering a Friday freebie. Go to www.handango.com/freeappfriday.jsp?siteid=1 To download your free copy after you fill out a brief survey.

Tipster: Jason

Friday freebies

Since it's Friday, I thought it would be a good idea to find some nice freebies and I found two. The first one is a cool converter for WM 2003 and above called MSSConverter which you can downlaod at http://micromeg.free.fr/progs/.html#MSSConverter.

The second one is a simple clock that takes up your Today screen. Requires .Net Compact Framework 2.0 and works with WM5 and above. Download at Http://www.netlogo.net/v2/html/pocketpc/sdclock.html.

Free WM6 upgrade for HTC P3300 available for download

A free upgrade for the P3300 is available on HTC's website. It is available for download only for members of the HTC e-Club at http://member.htc.com/member/login.aspx.

Posted on the GO!

Airscanner releases Power Tools beta

The Power Tools utility is intended for Power users who wants total control of their devices. The suite of tools include:
Safemode
Registry Editor
Device Monitor
Device Info
IECleaner
Task Switcher

PowerTools is designed to work with Pocket PCs running WM5 and 6.

Download cab file:

http://www.airscanner.com/downloads/powertools/asmptools_ota.cab

Desktop installer:

http://www.airscanner.com/downloads/powertools/asmptools.exe

Posted on the GO!

BenQ releases new super slim E72 Smartphone

BenQ present the E72 as an "incredibly thin" Smartphone at a little over 1cm. Powered by Windows Mobile 6 Standard edition, the device is feature packed, "integrating five different instant messaging networks in a single platform". Read more.

HTC releases 4 new devices

The Touch Dual, HTC P6500, HTC S730 and HTC Shift are HTC's newest device to the market. I consider only two among to be new - the Shift and the P6500. The Dual is simply an "upgrade" to the popular HTC Touch. Same applies to the S730 which is just a revamped S710.
The P6500 is meant for the enterprise. Besides its 3mp camera, it has a 2d barcode reader, Figerprint ID sensor, dual SDIO interface and a business card reader. In terms of connectivity, the p6500 supports triband HSDPA, and Quand band GSM/GPRS/EDGE.

Learn more at www.htc.com/product/03-products.htm

Posted on the GO!

Linley Meslier
Microsoft MVP - Windows Mobile Devices
Pocket PC Mauritius
Http://PocketpcMauritius.blogspot.com

Tips: How to highlight text in a Word document?

Highlighting text is a great feature in Word Mobile to enable readers to quickly locate important information. To apply a highlight to text, simply select the text. Then click Menu - Format - Font and select Highlight. Click OK and your text is highlighted. The same steps apply when applying a Underline or Strikethrough to text.

Posted on the GO!

Adobe launches Flash Lite 3

Flash Lite 3 allows compatible devices to display Flash player compatible video. "Flash Lite 3 more closely replicates the desktop experience delivered by Adobe Flash Player. This gives mobile users the freedom to access content whenever and wherever they want, while efficient resource management capabilities significantly improve and optimize performance for mobile devices. With Flash Lite 3, developers worldwide are able to create more engaging applications, interfaces and mobile assets that integrate video, as well as develop innovative and dynamic mobile assets such as wallpapers, screensavers or casual games." Only a few Windows Mobile devices are supported for now, some Ipaqs and two Toshibas. Read more...

Opera 8.65 for Windows Mobile released

This excellent browser is available as a free 30 days trial download at http://www.opera.com/. I have been using it as I my default browser on my HTC S620 in its beta version. I'm definitely looking forward to buy it. For some reason the Smartphone version is not available for purchase yet. Below is a list of fixes and enhancements:

Removed "Single Column" option from UI menu
Fixed scroll-bar issue after landscape switch
Fixed orientation problem after landscape witch
Fixed some crashes with Setting editing
Enhancement on UI responses
Fixed security icon display issue on some security site
Fixed "lost focus" problem during some user operations
Font size adjustment and enhancement

Learn more here.

Free: WKTask - Task Maager and Program luancher for WM5/6

WKtask is a nice and free utility for Pocket PC that lets you launch applications from the upper bar. Running applications are aligned right after the Start icon thus emulating the Windows desktop experience. Even the X button has multiple functions. One tap will really close the application while a tap & hold will display the context menu. Check out the WKTask's website to learn more: http://soft.photoracer.net/docs/wktask_en.html.

Posted on the GO!

Jeyo Mobile Companion 2.0 released

Version 2.0 supports Vista and among the list of new functionalities, it comes with sms chat. Jeyo Mobile Companion lets you backup and restore sms messages, sync sms to your PC, manage call history etc. It has loads of features that makes this application a must have. A free trial for 15 days is available at www.jeyo.com/companion.asp

Linley Meslier